Educational, Mission & Vision, Stewardship & Generosity

7 Habits of Financially Healthy Congregations

By michael on October 14, 2025 0 Comments

I once worked with a congregation that was convinced they were in trouble. Attendance was down, giving was flat, and they felt anxious about the future. But when we looked closer, something beautiful emerged: their mission giving was strong, they’d just launched a new community partnership, and people were stepping up to help. They weren’t … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning, Mission & Vision, Stewardship & Generosity

Six Trends That Are Changing Church Campaigns in 2025

By michael on August 11, 2025 0 Comments

One of the first questions I ask a prospective client is, “How will this campaign help achieve the mission and vision of your church?” Capital campaigns aren’t just “fundraising projects” anymore. They’ve become moments for the church to pause and say, “Here’s what we believe God is calling us to do and here’s how we … Continue Reading

Mission & Vision, Stewardship & Generosity

Do Young Members Pledge?

By michael on June 24, 2025 0 Comments

In the span of a week, I had two conversations and a podcast that gave me pause. One conversation was with my daughter, the other with a young church leader during a feasibility study. Then I listened to the recent edition of the First Day Podcast from the Lilly School of Philanthropy, featuring Una Osili … Continue Reading

Stewardship & Generosity

Biblical Principles for Financial Wisdom

By michael on March 7, 2024 0 Comments

A Guide for Pastors, Elders, and other Christians   Biblical wisdom on finance and faith for a fulfilling life   Imagine, if you will, navigating your finances as if trekking through a vast, untamed wilderness—rich with potential yet fraught with obstacles. Picture in your hands an ancient, trusted guidebook, ready to lead you through this expanse. … Continue Reading

Stewardship & Generosity

Rescuing the Annual Pledge Campaign from the Shackles of Thematic Tyranny!

By michael on September 9, 2023 0 Comments

Rescuing the Annual Pledge Campaign from the Shackles of Thematic Tyranny! Hi friends, thanks for sticking around. I hope our emails are inspiring and helpful for your congregation and setting. As always, you can easily UNSUBSCRIBE. But if you’re still interested… Let me offer some thoughts.   From Themes to Vision: The Path of True … Continue Reading

Stewardship & Generosity

Unleashing the Power of Fundraising for a Flourishing Church Community!

By michael on August 8, 2023 0 Comments

*|MC:SUBJECT|* *|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|* Building Lives, Building Dreams Unleashing the Power of Fundraising for a Flourishing Church Community! Capital campaigns are vital for church growth, yet they often remain puzzling for many faith-based communities. Today I’ll explain what they are and why they are crucial in fueling growth, expanding ministries, and fostering community connections.   What is … Continue Reading